Rising Senior Program Provides Education and Enrichment

Summer for a high school student usually means beach time, taking family road trips, reading by the pool, etc., but several rising high school seniors chose to spend part of their summer earning college credit through the Rising Seniors Program.

The program is offered during the month of June and is designed for outstanding students who have completed their junior year of high school. Will Brantley, senior enrollment counselor, works closely with the program. He says, “The Rising High School Senior program is a great way for a student to experience what university life is really like. It’s a fantastic experience of learning, growing in their faith and building community with other students. Every year we have students that come to the Rising Senior Program and then when they come to Union as freshman, they choose to be roommates with the friends they made during this summer. This is a program that helps students jump-start their university career and where they will make friends and memories that last a lifetime.”

This intensive summer program allows students the opportunity to earn up to seven semester hours of college credit, giving them an early start on their college career. The students take core curriculum classes such as English composition and college algebra during the program, and many also have the experience of living on campus. Gabby Zuckschwerdt, who just completed the program last Friday, says, “Wow! That pretty much sums up my experience so far here at Union! I can’t wait to hopefully attend here next fall!” Another participant in this year’s program, Samantha Barker, says, “During my time at Union, I have experienced nothing but wonderful things. I have attained some extremely valuable information and skills. The classes prepare you for the real college experience, and the residence life experience is truly remarkable. The decision to apply for the rising senior program will always be one of the most joy-filled and rewarding decisions I have ever made!”

During the month, the rising seniors are invited to a social event each Thursday to give them a chance to learn about different aspects of Union life. The final event is an ice cream social, where the students can celebrate the completion of their classes. To learn more about this summer program, visit www.uu.edu/admissions/risingsenior/.